DTH Services Comparison in India: Which is Best DTH in India?
DTH (Direct to Home) service typically refers to satellite TV broadcasting directly to a dish antenna on the roof of one’s house. DTH service is comparatively a new industry in India, which is growing bigger & better day by day. Some of the leading DTH services in India are Tata Sky, Airtel Digital TV, Dish TV, Videocon D2H, Reliance Digital TV, Sun Direct and DD Direct Plus. The DTH service promises better picture, sound quality & better service. In short, DTH promises to redefine television viewing. From March 31, 2013, Cable TV Digitization (Phase II) is getting compulsory in 38 cities across 15 states of India having a population of over a million. So, if you have decided to switch to DTH services, then you should choose your service provider wisely which will be beneficial in the long run. Now, if you are confused & thinking which is the best DTH, here is a clear & an impartial comparison of DTH services in India.
Also read:
- DTH vs Digital Cable TV Comparison: Which One is Better?
- Reliance JioFi 4G WiFi router Review: Can it replace home internet?
DTH services comparison in India
1. Quality of Service:
The most important thing that one looks for after a buying a commodity is the after sales service of the company to its customers. None can stay without watching television for a single day! All the DTH service providers offer a 24/7 customer care for you to manage packs or lodge any complaint. Most of the DTH providers now also provide online chat help during office hours. But who actually sticks to their promise?
Winner of this section: Tata Sky
Runner up: Airtel Digital TV
Tata Sky actually addresses the problem of their customers within 24 hours. Besides 24/7 Helpline, they also provide online support where you can self-help yourself. In addition to that if you have any hardware problem, they send their engineers within 24 hours & replace the damaged item instantly (if required). Many other DTH promises to send support within 24 hours, but it never happens!
2. Packaging:
The next thing you need to check out before making your decision is that, if the channel package designed by the company suiting you or not? Many DTH providers promise to give you hundreds of channels in your pack, but actually most of them are channels that no-one ever watches!
Winner of this section: Videocon D2H.
Runner up : Airtel Digital TV
Videocon gives more valuable channels in their packages than others. Higher end packages of Airtel are very good. Tata Sky either doesn’t add or adds the channels of the Zee Group very late whenever there are some new channels. They also don’t keep the sports channels of the Zee Group in their base pack (Ten Action, Ten Sports, Ten Cricket). On the other hand, DISHTV does the same with the channels of STAR Group. They don’t keep the sports channels of STAR Group in their base pack (Star Sports, Star Cricket, ESPN). That’s a big disadvantage!
3. Pricing:
Another important aspect is the price of the packages & the a-la-carte channels.
Winner for cheaper pricing of packages: Videocon D2H.
Runner up: Airtel Digital TV.
Winner for cheaper pricing of a-la-carte channels: Tata Sky.
4. HD Channels:
If you are planning to buy an HD Set top box, then you must check how many true HD channels are available in a particular DTH platform?
Winner for having the highest number of true HD channels Videocon D2H.
Runner up: Airtel Digital TV.
5. Number of Channels:
Last but not the least is the count of channels, your DTH service provider is giving you.
Winner of this section: Videocon D2H.
Runner up: Dish TV.
Videocon D2H not only gives the most number of channels in their packages compared to others, but also gives the most number of regional channels than anyone else. They also add new channels really fast & early.
DTH service provider based comparison:
Pros: Top quality service, no hidden charges/ unwanted deductions.
Cons: Bit expensive, very slow in adding new channels, less regional channels.
Pros: Value for money from all prospective.
Cons: Low-end Packages are not that good.
Pros: Cheap & Good Packages, More HD & Regional Channels.
Cons: Size of Antenna is a bit small which could result in disruption of service even in slightly bad weather which can be a big disadvantage.
Pros: Many Channels, All Zee Group Channels available, allows you to store recordings in any external USB storage device, thus the recording facility comes at no extra cost.
Cons: Star Group channels not present in base packs, High Price of a-la-carte (single) channels.
Pros: Great variety of South Indian packs, undoubtedly the best Choice for South Indians.
Cons: Rest of India Packs are not good, Very less non-south Regional Channels.
Pros: All 250 channels available in up-scaled HD like quality with video resolution of 1080p at 50 Hz.
Cons: Lack of publicity/clarity, infrastructure.
Pros: India’s only free DTH Service.
Cons: Very few channels, only free to air channels available, most channels are useless.
Final Verdict:
My choice for South Indians would be Sun Direct.
Choice for non-South Indians would be Airtel Digital TV.
My personal preference in decreasing order would be:
Airtel Digital TV -> Videocon D2H or Tata Sky -> Dish Tv -> Reliance Digital TV.
If you are from South India, then you can go for Sun Direct without thinking anything else. For the rest of India, my choice is Airtel Digital TV, as it is good in both service & audio/video quality. It has very good Packages with valuable channels which are not very expensive & also has a good number of Regional & HD Channels. So in short, it’s a complete DTH Service which gives back good value for money & is a better choice from every point of view.
To make your decision easier, we have given points (out of 10) to each DTH service provider based on its performance:
DTH comparison chart:
|
Quality |
Tata Sky |
Airtel |
Videocon D2H |
Dish TV |
Reliance |
|
Service |
9 |
8 |
7 |
7 |
6 |
|
Economical |
7 |
8 |
9 |
8 |
7 |
|
Quality of Packages |
8 |
8 |
9 |
7 |
8 |
|
Number of Channels |
7 |
8 |
9 |
9 |
7 |
|
Number of Regional Channels |
7 |
9 |
9 |
8 |
6 |
|
Audio/Video Quality |
9 |
9 |
8 |
9 |
9 |
|
HD Channels |
8 |
9 |
10 |
7 |
7 |
|
Performance in bad weather |
5 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
|
TOTAL (Out of 80) |
60 |
64 |
64 |
60 |
55 |
P.S: The facts posted in this DTH services comparison article are approximated facts of our personal survey & based on the latest rates/packages till date which are subject to change. You are advised to verify personally before you make a decision. Neither the writer of this post nor the owner of this blog advertises or endorses any DTH company. The idea was to present an impartial view to the consumers & not to influence anyone. The opinions expressed are purely personal. Opinions & experience of a product vary from person to person.
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It’s nice to see so many options going into India I remember at one time there was very limited internet services. I bet all our friends using blog engage from India are happy to load our site faster.
Please don’t buy videacon DTH it’s the worst in India i bought it and always in problem after buying it. They keep on corrupting the software and then charge money from u on every visit..They have the worst call center ..they just say Maafi Chahta hoonot. …but do nothing….I spend more then 2000 rupees in calling them but every three to four months they create some problem….Please buy Any other not Videocond2h. …
No as compair to other dth Videcon Dth is given more channels and cheep package it is very use for poor people if you taken airtel there is no ceep package for seeing minimum (imp cha)chancels.
For Exp
In Air tel if you take south valve sports
the dth is given only cheap chanalles and there is no cover all sports channel at cost Rs.257/-
In other side
Videcon You New south Gold the dth given all south langauage channel and all Hindhi Ent,Music and movies ,all eng news at cost Rs 254/-
I also agree with your points.I have 1 airtel and 2 videocon dth connection for mine and my mother &my labors. Airtel also has signal issues and they also charging the same like videocon providers. But unfortunately the package wise videocon is very very top and the rate is nominal.
I agree, Videocon product has zero durability. and they charge you on each visit for their so call engineers for any fault .
I strongly agree with you Lakshya.. I have the same problem
I have three connections of Videocon but never faced
any issue till date.
If I would have to choose one, I would have gone for Tata Sky Plus although I’m having Dish TV right now.
My favorite is Tata Sky and second choice is Dish Tv as i am suing both these at my home and satisfied with them.
Lol, Don’t make the mistake of going for TataSky 🙂
Their Service horrible !!!!!
Signal issues are very common for Tatasky, you may check out Youtube links.. and I am a Victim ..
Even if this is TataSky’s issue you need to spend money for every technician visits to at least understand the nature of issue, and its not cheap. You will loose temper when the issues are not resolved after several such visits…
And even if they could not resolve issues, they won’t refund !!
I feel they are totally wrong and I should let others know what I faced !!
i am comparing Reliance big Tv vs Videocon D2H ,I found Reliance big TV is better option than Videocon d2h,coz
1) Reliance big TV is giving 8 English news channels on there base pack.
2) Videocon d2h is not giving any eglish news channel in base pack
3) For Long term Rechage (1Year) Reliance Big TV charging Rs171/-(inclusive of Tax)=Rs2052/-
4) Videocon d2h charging Rs2400/- for 1 year (50 Days Free) =Rs2066/-
In my point of view Videocon d2h should think about english news channel on there base pack , else swithch over is not a diffcult task for customer.
You forgot the main benefit of Dish Tv which no other provider is offering.
Dish TV provides free recording services for both its SD and HD packages.
Simply we need to plug in pen drive in set top box and it is great feature without any extra charges.
Hello Arun,
I really appreciate you for bringing this point to my notice. But the thing is other DTH services also allow you to record at no extra cost. Nobody charges for recording. The only difference is that Dish TV allows you to record it in a pen drive or any other external storage device & thus the STB comes at no extra cost as it does not have any internal storage device, it just has a USB port & also this enables unlimited recording.
Whereas other DTH services don’t allow you to store the recordings in any external drive, they have an internal 500GB or any other capacity hard disk which stores the programs. Thus those STBs are expensive & once your 500GB is full, you have to delete the old recordings!
He did not forget, please read carefully the pros and cons of each service provider.
Now this is a tough one… but I do tend to state that preference of DTH Services is solely based on ones personal taste. Its true that, (s)he will want to check all available options, pros and cons before settling on one. While some services are clearly at an advantage (in some fields) over other service providers, they make it up in other fields.
After doing my own comparison, I think VideoconD2H is the best even for SOUTH Indian.
SUNDirect looks cheap for South package but misses out on lot of other GEC channels.
So I vote or Videocon at the moment.
Star Sports tamil is not available on videocon. Worst dth provider. Sports channels are too costly.
Videocon – Really Good to go – Price &
Quality
1. Registered on 5th Jan, Installed on
6th Jan itself
2. Clear Picture & Sound quality
3. Good package (1- year South
Platinam HD + New Connection =
5400) (Avg 250 / month only)
4. There is no other DTH provider
having this great plan (300+ channels)
for less money
5. More Sports & HD channels
Automatic Software update also :)…
Adds new features
Dear Plaban,
This is so nice post and very useful for new buyers. Heartiest thanks to you.
thank you sourav ,
i read u r aricle DTH and CABLE STB comparison.really it is very use ful to all.
Thanx a lot…!!
I think most of the DTH players are charging HD access fees except Dish.This fees varies from Rs.25(for Videcon D2h) to whooping Rs.100(for Tata Sky).I would request you to compare the current pricing of Packages & HD STBs offered by different DTH Operators for the benefit of thousands of desireous customers willing to go for HD.
The comparison is made way before i.e 108 days.Is there any changes made in these DTH providers.Would like to see a survey done recently.It will be of immense help.Thanks by the way for the above comaprison.
Hello Sunil,
This post was last updated by me on January 12, 2013. Since then there has been no major changes in any DTH services or packages!
Hi Sourav
Very good comparison. I was looking for changing my DTH from reliance and hit upon this blog. This has helped me to focus my effort for comparison between couple of players rather than complete list.
Thanks, Anand
Good job well done.
Thanks Sourav,
Very Useful Information.
Regards
Hemant
Dear saurav plz update that which dth is best in sound n pic quality as far as hd or sd both channels are concern and cheapest pricing including sports channels
Hello Taslim,
Best Picture & Sound quality (Both SD & HD) : TataSky / Airtel
Cheapest Packs including Sports channels : Videocon D2H
Dear
saurav so it means if i choose pic n sound quality i should choose either tata sky or airtel and if i will go for cheapest pack i should chose videocon right sir, actally i am confused in between these three i was looking for one who provide in cheapest price with hd channel and sports as well and one more thing i would also like to know that what is mpeg4 and mpeg2 is pic and sound quality got to any thing with this please let me know
please saurav im waiting for ur reply
Hello Taslim,
Yes you are right in your assumptions about the different DTH service providers.
To understand the difference between mpeg2 & mpeg 4, you visit the link below :
http://www.differencebetween.net/technology/difference-between-mpeg2-and-mpeg4/
However, to compare about the picture quality of HD & SD DTH, i can tell you that :
HD DTH service gives you a much better TV viewing experience with an aspect ratio of 16:9 and 1080i resolution where as, the actual transmission of SD signals is at 576i (PAL resolution).
But to get detailed differentiation between HD & SD picture/sound quality, you can visit this link below :
http://www.dth.co/185/dth-or-hd-dth/
thank you saurav to provide really gud coperision between dth
actally i was interested to buy tata sky but i got to know that compare to other dth that tata sky wil not be able to add more channel bcoz they hav got less space sp plz let me know that as per feuture prespective (means adding more channel) which will be better
and i also wana know that mpeg2 or mpeg4 make any differece in as per pic n sound quality
thank you
Hello Raj,
Airtel i think is the best from all perspective as i have mentioned in my article. Except this Videocon D2H is also very quick in adding channels.
Well, i don’t think there is anything to bother about this mpeg2 or 4 thing! Its just that if you buy a HD STB, you will get better picture & sound in HD channels otherwise if you buy SD STB, then normal quality sound & picture in SD channels.
If you want to know more about mpeg2 or 4, then just read my previous comment above which i replied to Taslim.
Hi Sourav,
Highly appreciated for your efforts.
I just need a clarification on Big Tv. I have a Big Tv settop box, and I want to go for a HD setopbox. Is there a way I can upgrade to HD setopbox or I have to buy a new one?
Thanks,
Ajay
Hello Ajay,
You have to buy a new one!
Hi Sourav,
I got a Tata Sky + HD connection last week and I am getting all the channels including HD channels free for a full 2 months. They also have flexible packages, base one starting from Rs. 155 pm and a bouquea of A-La-Carte channels to choose from. And according to every survey and every user who used Tata Sky before, they are the no. 1 when it comes to customer service.
However, all these things can not be said about Airtel, with their set top boxes
having technical issues and them need to be replaced (with additional cost for a new one) after their warranty period of 1 year. And Videocon is a new player, trying to get hold of some market share that is dominated by Dish Tv
(primarily in North India) and secondly by Tata Sky (spread across all over India).
So, putting all these things into perspective, I would have expected Tata Sky to be the No.1 DTH service provider in India and they should have really got a rating higher than Airtel. So, I don’t know how come your survey gave Airtel the No. 1 status for the parameters you have used for your ranking. Hope I have conveyed my point on who really is the No. 1 DTH provider in India.
Thanks for your post by all means as it educates those who needs more information about different DTH services from a single place. Keep it up….
Hello Mani,
I really appreciate you for sharing your views. The opinions i have expressed here are my personal & obviously everybody has the right to agree or disagree. But i would like to mention the points why i did not rank TataSky as No.1. I have already mentioned that TATASKY is the best in customer service. You just experienced tatasky for 1 week but i am using tatasky for 4 years. I like the Jingala Saturdays offer. Also in these 4 years i never faces any technical problem. Now here are the reasons why TataSky is not No.1 in my opinion.
1)Very less regional channels. I am a bengali. Tatasky only gives 10 bengali channels whereas others are providing minimum 14-15 regional bengali channels.
2)Very slow in adding new channels. Ten Action/Ten cricket & many other channels were added almost after a year or 6 months after they started.
3)Less total channels & music channels. Many good music channels & Zee group channels are missing!
4)Packages are a bit expensive compared to others.
P.S : I did not write this to argue with you. I just wanted to convey you the reason why i did not rate Tatasky as No.1. I would once again like to thank you for sharing your views with us & everybody.
I want to go in for a hd set top box with news and all sports channels please advice
Hi Saurav,
You have presented in a good way the differences of all the DTH operators in India. BUT I would like you to also make an article or maybe do a comment in this same article comparing the base packages to top packages of all the DTH operators and of course which should be the latest one!!
Well Written article !!
very nice and helpful explanations and discussions..!!!! thanks saurav and others!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
Dear Sourav,
Thans for this beautiful compilation and comparison. I have been a user of our Cable Operator’s Set-top box for quite some time now, and have been contemplating going for a DTH.
I would like to ask you 2 questions, that would help me buy the right DTH service:
1) I have 2 TVs: one for my family and another for my Mother. I would therefore need a dual connection. Which would be the best DTH service in these terms, considering quality, service, initial and recurring costs.
2) I have been a user of Airtel Comm, and have found them taking lot of hidden charges. Do they do same with Airtel TV as well?
Would like to suggest anything beyond this comparison that would help me buy the right DTH before end March.
Thanks
-Pradeep
Hello Mr. Ghosh,
Before changing to DTH i would advice you to visit my post given below :
http://www.webadvices.com/2012/07/dth-vs-digital-cable-tv-comparison.html
As of Hidden charges, TataSky doesn’t have any hidden charges in payment or price! But it has its own pros & cons as i mentioned in my post. Others may have hidden charges!
For Multi TV, TataSky is a bit ahead of others! TataSky charges flat Rs160 for the 2nd TV for any package you take in the 1st TV. Whereas others are charging Rs160 for low end packages on 2nd tvs & higher for high end packages.
Airtel :
http://www.airtel.in/wps/wcm/connect/dth/bharti+DTH/Packages+for+you/Advance+Rental+Packages/
Videocon :
http://www.videocond2h.com/wsc/multiroom_connection.aspx
Dish tv :
http://www.dishtv.in/Library/Images/FAQs-for-Multi.pdf
TataSky :
http://www.tatasky.com/multitv.html
Dear Mr. Sourav,
Your artilcle is very informative.
However, I ( a scientist & sr citizen) like to share my experience with Tatasky in Bangalore. I had multi connection facility for more than six years, one in my living room & other in my guest room. The one in guest room was not used regularly, I used to switch on only when a guest used to come. But the connections were used to be discontinued (though I had never been a defaulter in payment) and could be established only when I contact their call centre. Connection were re-established with a several steps to be done at my end as per instruction on phone. I suffered this embarrassment before my guests several times. I had at least contacted the call centre a dozen times asking the reason why there is discontinuation, when I have paid all dues in full. I was every time given a vague answer, and lastly I was informed that their software automatically disconnects the line which is not used for long, without verifying payment status. After many many complaints/request, the service provider could not correct the situation. Hence, after enduring this deficient service for five years, last year I permanently got my guest room facility disconnected and relived of payment for which I was not getting uninterrupted service and big embarrassment in front my honoured guests. Hence I do no not want to give them high rating on their sevices.
Regards.
Hi sourav,
just want to know is still the quality of videocon is below than other DTH companies?? coz except the quality videocon lead in all aspects !
Anyone purchased videocon recently also can advice 🙂
thnx n regards
Senthilkumar
Hello Senthikumar,
See i think it is below others in quality but not such a huge difference! So, if you are satisfied about Videocon’s other features, then go for it!
Dear Sourav,
I have Airtel HD connection along with additional tv connection (STB) @ 160. I have paid one year subscription of (ultra nano) then including then available HD top up. Thereafter many hd channels came but Airtel didn’t add those & asked for extra price per channel. There were also standard channels not being added automatically (HBO defined etc) rather there is regular reduction of channels like bbcentertainment & others. It’s time to renew! I want all hindi, english & oriya channels (news, entertainment,movie,sports, hd ) in one year subscription in a condition that whatever new channels comes to added automatically. Don’t think airtel will do. Tata sky saying cost would be around 20000/- (One HD-R & one HD set up box for second tv). Is there any possibility of exchange program or I have to stick with Airtel on economic consideration? I have to take decision in a day or two!
Hello Mr. Acharya,
I use TataSky. So, 1 thing i can tell you from my experience, once you take any package in TataSky they never remove channels from that package unless that channels is totally deleted from all TataSky customer base. In fact, they never charge for any hike during the one year subscription. Also any channel that gets added to the pack that you are using gets added to you @ no extra cost! So, Tata Sky is much better in this aspect.
No there is no inter-DTH exchange program unfortunately!
20000/-??? How?? Tata Sky+ HD (with recorder) Starter Kit costs Rs 6,190/- (inclusive of all taxes).Tata Sky HD DTH Starter Kit costs Rs 2,829/-(inclusive of all taxes). So, how is it coming to 20000/-?? Visit the links given below :
http://www.tataskyplus.com/cost.html
http://www.tatasky.com/hd/what-will-cost.html
Thanks Sourav, Very nice compilation. I was researching for best DTH, This article has solved all my queries. it has helped in taking my decission. I will go go Videocon
Nice job Gentleman. Please extend your research to all consumer goods.
Most of the Major Market players keep many informations in dark, we come across several land mines after paying.
Keep rocking.
Best of Luck.
My experience with tata sky – especially the help desk is very bad. After coming back from abroad, I recharged , later found cable was cut and dish antenna went missing. While I was deliberating on complaining to society (as tata sky help desk cannot obviously own up), and also working to upgrade to HD or HD+, Tatasky continues to detect daily charge. When enquiring help desk is not responding to online request and when called is telling me I did not place a suspension request. multiple confusing statements. Suspension charge deducted, while not suspended. Cable cut, no signal, daily charge being deducted. No option to keep on suspending more than 15 days or post dated suspension due to their fault. No more than 1 suspension request per year. Pathetic customer service in contrast to what is being rated here.
Well i’m unsure about airtel dth hd and tata sky hd in my area and i’m from kolkata ? Which one do you think would be the best for picture quality and quality of service ? I’ve heard good reviews for both of them anyhow.
Hello Ritwick,
If you are concerned about picture quality and quality of service, then TataSky is better in my opinion!
videocon d2h is a worst company, they make fake claims on purchasing and after purchasing they never respond to customer complaints and even if customers tries to reach them through phone they cut it and if you post your query online they delete your post.
Dear Sourav,
I am teacher in Maldives,from Kerala.Now I wish to buy one dth.But we teachers don’t know which is the suitable dth,that is available in Maldives.Here in some area we didn’t get sun direct .So please help us which dth has the coverage in Maldives.
Yours faithfully,
Harris John.
Hello Mr. Harris,
I think TataSky, Airtel & Dish TV has signal coverage in maldives. But i am not too sure!
Useful review.. Im from Hyderabad.. I thought of getting SunDirect DTH.. !!
Can you tell me how is the service and the quality of SunDirect ??? Can i get major Hindi channels(Not north regional channels) and English channels ??
Hello Mr. Ram,
Yes you can get major Hindi & English channels in Sun Direct. To know more in details visit :
http://sundirect.in/
& select the “Packages” tab to get the list of packages & channels.
If you take cable you can’t take the Set top box with you when you move to chennai, you have to again buy a new one there but if you take DTH, you can relocate the same connection to your new address & don’t need to but a new connection again in chennai!
Hey thanks Sourav , Information you gave is complete, very well organized , and highly admirable .
Although there still exists a question in my mind regarding the services of BIG tv(Reliance) ? Can you elaborate or give some some links regarding more info on BIG tv? Actually they have a good base package but as you said less publicity costing them.
Thanks in advance. 🙂
Hello Manish,
Official site of Reliance digital TV where you will get all info about them:
http://www.reliancedigitaltv.com/
For info on their packages :
http://www.reliancedigitaltv.com/packages_Overview.html
Hello Sourav, Nice article.
My question is which one is better? Videocon d2h or Tata Sky
I am living in Gujarat. I mostly need sports and music channels. Also currently one of the provider here offering me to pay 6000 rupees for Videocon d2h with 1 year subscription of all (all HD + SD) channels. After 1 year need to recharge same way as others do. like 200 rs/month for basic pack.
Do you think going for videocon d2h will be a better option?
Hello Piyush,
Videocon has much more no. of music channels than tatasky. In sports category both have same no. of channels. Videocon is cheaper from every aspect. But Tatasky has better service & quality. So, now its up to you to choose! I will put Videocon a bit ahead of TataSky in the race.
hai this RAGHUNATH GURRAM
I want to buy a dth so which is better
i want sports channels and english channels with less amount
I have Videocon Dth service. It is nice service. Tata Sky is also best service at all.
thank u sourav !!
it information is usefull to everyone
Airtel DTH service is the worst DTH service. Their after sales service is worst in India. In call center guys are confused about the product knowledge.
Airtel is worst service in the world. Because I was made a complaint of Airtel HD Recorder at 10th March 2012 but till now the problem not rectified but the sales calls are disturbing me every day.
Thank You Sourav, thats a fine comparison.
I would like to choose between Tata Sky and Videocon. Full Annual Packages (HD+SD+Recording). I have a few questions which are puzzling me ??
Which one is better if I have multi TV’s (4 or 5)??
Which one has better picture and sound quality?? (5.1 etc)
Which one offers more English entertainment channels ?? (zee cafe, fox crime, etc)
Which one offers latest Showcase movies??
Which one offers better recording feature??
Which one performs better in bad weather conditions?? (mumbai rains)
My building has common dish’s for both Tata and Videocon, will this make any difference in terms of picture quality, etc??
I know i’m kind of taxing you, but your comments will be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your advise!!
Rajan
Hello Rajan,
Q) Which one is better if I have multi TV’s (4 or 5)??
A) TataSky, as it charges flat Rs180(SD) & Rs200(HD) per tv 2nd tv onwards for any package but Videocon charges between Rs180(SD) to Rs225(HD) per tv 2nd tv onwards for different packages.
Check this out :
http://www.videocond2h.com/WSC/multiroom_connection.aspx
http://www.tatasky.com/channel-packages.html
Q) Which one has better picture and sound quality?? (5.1 etc)
A) TataSky in my opinion is slightly better.
Q) Which one offers more English entertainment channels ?? (zee cafe, fox crime, etc)
A) You check this out from the links given below as packages changes from time to time :
http://www.videocond2h.com/WSC/packages.aspx
http://www.tatasky.com/channel-packages.html
Q)Which one offers latest Showcase movies??
A) Both.
Q)Which one offers better recording feature??
A) Both. But TataSky is slightly better in my opinion.
Q) Which one performs better in bad weather conditions?? (mumbai rains)
A) TataSky is slightly better in my opinion as dish of Videocon is little smaller in size.
Q) My building has common dish’s for both Tata and Videocon, will this make any difference in terms of picture quality, etc??
A) No, not at all!
Hi Sourav,
The comparision has been really helpful, could you also help me with information on performance of tata sky versus airtel versus dish tv during rains.
I have been using tata sky for last 4 years and I have experienced that the signal simply goes off on the slight hint of rain only to ge back after the signal had subsided, thus I am looking at alternatives.
Neelav
Hello Neelav,
3 of the DTH you mentioned are more or less same! Its better if you ask someone from your neighborhood about their experience!
i got sundirect….Although i am in mumbai… it was very fast installation and service…packages are pretty much same …but my Cable guy recommended me Sundirect..i am pretty much ok with the services till now..
Interesting comparison.
Your perception is right. But the problem of selecting sun DTH is, their immoral way of doing black-outs. If they have any competition with other channels, they’ll just blackout.
Thanks for the article. It helped..
Tata Sky is horrible ..Most importantly, they add on package without the notice of clients and charge the a/c, So you have to be careful and track your a/c.Generally, we tend to forget these small payments … But this is akin to stealing.
Am from kerala.decided to choose from either sundirect or videocon. I want more malayalam, sports channels and english news channels.which one i hav to prefer.Pls help me
Dear SOURABH,
Your comparison is very helpful for a non-tech person like me. I have decided to go for VIDEOCON d2h after careful observation of your Comments. Thanks a lot for guiding me taking a Fruitful Decision which would have not been possible without this write up. Carry on Brother.
Hello Sourav et al.,
What are the possibilitis of getting European channels (German) in India? Are there any providers offering German channels?
Thanks,
Excellent comparison, very helpful……
Hi sourav ,
Suggest me the best digital TV connection in Jadavpur ,Kolkata area considering monthly charge,channel package and able to sustain in bad weather conditions.
Yes, TATA SKY service is getting worse by the day. They disconnect the secondary connection on their whim yet continue to deduct the charges and when you call their helpline, they say that they do not disconnect anymore and try to blame the customer instead of solving our problems.
The tariff they charge is not worth the service they provide. Why is the Government, not starting a MNP like service for DTH?
Planning the shift to Videocon DTH soon.
Hi sourav,
Thanks for ur useful information, is there any improvement in quality of services a for videocon end improvement in bad weather performance for videocon
worst service of reliance dth they r going to close soon
i am a computer engineer and thank u for bringing such points which cleared my confusion….
Thanks Saurav, Excellent post.
But I think you need to update with some recent changes. I would like to know best providers considering below condition:
1- More than one TV at home
2- cheap and best baase pkg which is having major news and sports channels
3- having cheap and usefule monthly pkg
4- lowest cost setup box(HD also)
Presently i used Big TV,NOW I WANT TO CHANGE IN OTHER DISC CONNECTION. I WANT TO KNOW THAT ALL GOODS TO RETURN TO RELIANCE,WHILE I PAID RS 2490.00 BEFORE 6 YEARS.
THANKS & REGARDS
M.K.Saraf
9314919305
Unethical Practices by Tata Sky
Tata-A trusted name for its uncompromised principles and ethics is now on the way to get profit by adopting unethical practices. You cannot believe but it is true that Tata is adopting the same path for profiteering, which is a trademark for another big group in India. This is my true experience with one of such Tata group company-Tata Sky.
I was using Tata Sky services for the last five years (Customer ID 1043128287). On 21st August, 2014 my set top box (STB) started showing no signal. I contacted customer care and requested them to replace it with new one. They confirmed that I will get a new STB for Rs 500. My work order reference no. EMUFJA5 proceed by the tata sky executive. My local service center replaced it by new one for Rs 500 (they also collected my old STB) and said that it will start working as soon as I recharge with Rs 500. They again confirmed me that STB is new one and has one year guarantee.
I recharged with Rs 520 immediately and subsequently company deducted Rs 500. It was not working even after recharge. I again contacted local representative and he said that due to technical error they have to replace my STB with another one. The serviceman said that second one is also a new and has one year guarantee. I said ok. Now the Tata Sky started cheating its customer. They sent an old STB with one month guarantee. I refused to change and contacted the Customer Care. They again said that you will get a new STB for Rs 500. Next few days’ company played with me like football- Sending my request to local servicemen and servicemen refusing to start my STB. At last I contacted to Ms. Ireen at Tata Sky Head Office, Mumbai. She referred my complaint to Ms. Meenakshi. Meenakshi again said that don’t worry you will get a new STB in Rs 500. But at last she also said that we can give you old one in Rs 500.
They are collecting old STBs with Rs 500 and providing repaired STB. How a reputed company like Tata Sky can do that???But yes this is true. Company is not showing this information on their official communiqué. At last I migrated to another service provider with a resolution not to use any Tata product in future.
Any new customer, who is planning to buy a new Tata Sky connection, must confirm that once his STB has technical problem whether they will get a new one or repaired older STB with a cost of new STB.
Be aware about this fraud. Another company is providing a new STB in the same price range.
Shiv Sharma
[email protected]
Mobile no. 09411625366
I started tata sky hd 4-5 years back. until last year everything was going good. i had the top annual package with hd. with the annual hd pack. i was promised that with annual hd pack, all the newly added channels will b provided with no extra cost.
1. problems started when they added star world premiere hd. after repeated follow ups for star world premiere hd, finally customer (not) care gave me answer that for this channel I will have to pay extra… no discussion. or i cant get that channel.
2. last june when I did my annual recharge online, they did not update my annual package. when i called for explanation they started telling me that the price has gone up & i will have to pay more. I asked them why they have not updated the increased prices online & why they are telling this to me after i paid for the full year in advance. I did not get any convincing answer at all & nor was my annual pack renewed. finally i had decide to wait until the recharge amount is utilized & then switch to another service provider. now i am searching for change.
Hi saurav,
I liked yor post. Its really helpfull. Am a bengali but staying in bangalore. I am planning to buy a Hd dth connection. My requirement is best Hd content in terms of quality nd spread of channels nd all bengali channels.. I wont mind paying a lil extra for a good quality nd good service.
1.) So which d2h should i go for?
2) Also do give prices of HD starter kit for tata sky, airtel, dish tv nd videocon.
3) Also how is tata sky plus different from other normal d2h?
YOU MAY GO AIRTEL DTH HD+ CONNECTION,HERE ALL BENGLI+ANY ONE REGIONAL LANG FREE OF COST
Hi,
I have read out all the points shared by U about DTH.
I decided to by Sony Bravia Full HD 3D TV 40/42 inch.
Pls. suggest me will Videocon D2H will be ok.
YOU CAN BUY HD+ AIRTEL DTH,ONLY999.00
videocond2h best service
RELIAINCE DTH HAS THE V V V POOR SERVICE .
CUSTOMER CARE TOO BUSY
INSPITE OF CALLING SEVERAL TIMES PERSON ARE NOT COMMING GIVING BLUFF ECUSE
I HAVE PAID ONE YEAR FULL PAYMENT AND I AM NOT GETTING SERVICE
PL DONT PAY TO ANY COMPANY FULL PAYNMENT
I HAVE STILL SIX MONTHS TO GO
AIRTEL DTH IS BEST,IT’S PICTURE QUALITY ALL TIME BEST AND CUSTOMER CARE(12150,18001028080)IS BEST,ALA-CARTE PACK LOWER PRICE 150 RUPEES,HERE CHANNELS CAN REMOVE AND ADD EASILY MANAGE BY CALLING CUSTOMER CARE ANY TIME ANY CHANNEL ADD AND REMOVE.SO, ALL PROGRAMME WILL CATCH ANY TIME — ANY DAY.
C CARE IS VERY GOOD AND TALENT/FASTEST
YOU CAN BUY AIRTEL DTH 999.00 RUPEES,ONLY FOR AIRTEL MOBILE CUSTOMER,BUT THIS OFFER IS VERY GOOD.
I USE IT SINCE 2008
Hi Suman,
Is 999 offer still available? I am planing to buy Airtel , but i could not find that online.
Are you an Airtel DTH agent???
I AM OF THE OPINION THAT DISH TV DTH SERVICE IS WORST. THEY ARE BETRAYING WITH THEIR CUSTOMERS. INTENTIONALLY CREATES THE FAULT AND THEN GRAB THE MONEY OF CUSTOMERS BY SENDING TECHNICIANS AGAIN & AGAIN. SECONDLY THEY DECEIVE THE CUSTOMERS BY LURING TO SHOW ALL FAVOURITE CHANNELS OF SONY, COLOURS, ZEE KHANA KHAZANA & SPORTS LATER THEY WITHDRAW ALL THESE CHANNELS EVEN NEWS CHANNEL OF AAJ TAK ONLY ON SO CALLED SUPER FAMILY PACK OF THE COMPANY.
EVEN COMPLAINTS NOT ATTENDED UPTO 7 DAYS
I don’t agree that Tata Sky will provide good service. I am facing signal issue. No signal for past 2 days. It repeated in twice in 2weeks of time.So in span of 20days, there is no signal for 4 days. When contacted helpdesk they were telling that they are upgrading the system and that’s why the Signal issue is reported. I don’t know how long they keep on upgrading their system
TataSky is the worst among players, it has been a nightmare for me dealing with them, no response at all from the customer support. in the last one month hardly for a few days we had good signal. they still didnt fix the problem and demanding full payment for the month, and you can never make a call to their customer care
I am using tata sky….really good service…
I have been a loyal customer of Tatasky for several years now. Few months ago, I added one more connection – but now the set-top-box has gone bad (is still under warranty). Does not turn on at all. Repeated complaints to Tatasky continues to be ignored – everytime you complain, a new agent picks up and you get a new reference number. The complaint gets closed without anyone visiting the house! It has been a frustrating experience to say the least. I’m ready to give up and switch to regular cable option – at lease I get to meet someone in person and get issues resolved …
I found TATA Sky is worst in customer service. They have their offer division, which is totally worst & only for misguiding their customer to charge extra for his/her package. they first give offer & after deny when you recharge as per their amount for annual term. I am today start legal procedure against Tata Sky for the same & logged consumer complain also.
ADVISING NOT TO LISTEN THEIR FUCKING OFFER DEPARTMENT’S CALL & RECHARGE AS PER YOUR OWN CHOICE.
Dear Sourav,
Thanks for your well researched & informative post. I am a retired Bengali from Kolkata. I would like to have your advise on the selection of DTH for my new flat on the following parameters –
a) Multi TV (2 TV) connection
b) Recording facillity
c) Bengali – entertainment & News channels
d) Hindi – entertainment channels
e) English – News (including BBC/CNN), Discovery channels, History, NGC channels
f) If possible, Broadband connection additionally for my PC
g) Quality of service around Bansdroni area
h) Price – installation & monthly charges
I am sorry to tax you with my requirements. Hope you will find some time in your busy schedule to answer my querries.
With lots of affection,
Yours truely
Bappaditya Gupta
I have two 32″ flat TV’s (about 2 & 5 yrs old) and after using the local cable, last December opted for Videocon D2H annual Platinum package for both TV’s. Recently, my Samsung TV (Korean manufacture) started having audio problems – initially it would become mute for short periods sporadically, but after three days seem to have become soundless. I called the Videocon technician, who claimed that it was a TV problem as the output from the set-top box had audio signals. I have given my TV for repairs to its audio and was informed that the audio IC’s have to be replaced, and was informed that the likely cause was the poor quality of set-top box used by Videocon – which at times caused fluctuating voltage output that damaged the TV’s audio system – he had experienced this problem earlier. He suggested that I should change to Tatasky – whose Set-top boxes were more reliable. My current subscription expires in December, but additional Set-top boxes etc would be considerable cost. I am not sure if Tatasky would be a better service provider – worth the expense.
Request for your advice/comments. Thanks
Hi
Very nice article.. Just want to confirme whether this information is relevant even today as I can see that article is quite old.
I m confused between Tata sky, Videocon and Airtel
My preference is not costing but want services from someone who provides more English movie channels in HD
Your early reply will be really helpful.
TIA
i just discontinued with tata sky, after 21 days of most harrowing and nasty experience with their customer service personnel….a company bearing the good name of Tatas could have such poor customer service standards in place, is a discovery that still astonishes me….by now if u have chosen them, i would like to know your personal experience with them…cheers, antonio, goa
Hi,
I like other BIGTV users ,frustrated with the damn Reliance service ,have decided to shift to other service provider with HD Facility .I was following with reliance for HDTV but unfortunately the past 2 years,they have stories about the non availability (Hope Anil ambani has a twitter handle so that he can be appraised )and hence am planning to shift to other service provider.,here in Mumbai.
I am not preferring tatasky because we have already bad experience .
secondly dish tv is not preferred,since i fear of star channels being blacked out.
No sun tv ,since any time it might be banned .
Choice is with videocon or airtel,i am planning to opt for airtel since i am more concerned of monsoon failure of videocon.what do you suggest?
thanks and also appreciate your very informative article.
Can anyone Comment about SUN DIRECT HD SET TOPBOX?
I am also agree with Mr. SreeNath. Service of Reliance Digital TV is totally dull. Now i am consuming the service of Reliance Digital TV but i want to change my DTH due his service is not good. Now anyone can suggest me which DTH Service Provider would be best.
videocon d2h is best and very good picture qulitty and sun direct is worst
Very Very Poor service Dish TV not purchase any body this company froad
Tnx guys, I found this really helpful and also tnx for comments most of them helped to get decide ????????
I am planning to shift from Tatasky, had very painful experience dealing with their help desk. Lots of co-ordination gap among their team. They tested my passions, they won and I could not get services from them. This article is very useful to take call. Request to revalidate the latest status of DTH service provider, sounds this article was written in year 2013.
Thank you it is useful article which covers various aspects to evaluate write service provider.
1) Dish tv
2)D2h2
3)sun direct
4)airtel digital
5)Tata sky
6)reliance
Hi, i am from Hyderabad and wish to change from cable to DTH as setupbox is must from 31st dec. Can any body suggest economy service provider of DTH in Hyderabad as well in Andhra Pradesh as i may move to A.P from Hyderabad after some time. I need only south Indian channels like ETV,MAA,GEMINI,TV5,TV9 and few Hindi and English (not sports) i,e TLC, Discovery etc. My monthly budget should not exceed Rs.150 or first year package including setup box should not exceed Rs.2500 TO 3000. I found Sundirect is offering Rs.3200 for one year packing including setup box. Kindly advise.
useful comparison… thanks
Please do not but SUNDTH as their after sales service is very poor.
Which HD recorder set of box is best…. Tata sky and Videocon d2h
Sourav Chatterjee,
I think there are no postings now a days,
I am having the Dish TV since 2005 and now i want to move to HD STB. one of the Dish TV technical personnel advised me to go for a new connection instead of upgrading to HD as the new connection will give some extra benefits than the upgrading from old one. now i am thinking of going to some other service providers also.hence, in your views, which is better DTH for a kannadiga. pl don’t suggest Sun…. as the same doesnot have good quality of picture n sound
with regards,
narayanaswamy
Terrible service by Airtel dth We have changed set top box recorder twice and both times we had to pay 600 odd but they give only a serviced one which will give problem soon To get customer care is most difficult and their service staff are rude
i see that the author of this survey article has of late stopped writing in after having patiently done so for a good 2 year period…very commendable…shows his passion and professionalism.
Video on d2h has the worst service
no videocon is not worst say the reason
Seems like you are getting paid for promotion of videocon d2h. Worst ever packaging and very high rates.
Nice one good post likesssss
Dear Saurabh,
Actually i want to purchase the DTH. You compare the best thing in all DTH providers. I was very suspicious matter to purchase the DTH. After that I have purchased the best thing from your support. Thanks Saurav.
Tata sky is very best dth service is for india. Price level cheaper
I changed my reliance big tv to tata sky because of following reasons. I don’t have experience with other service hence can not comment.
Reasons
1. During rainy season the signals got effected which surprisingly I did not find with Tata Sky.
2. I wanted Maharashtra1 tv channel which was not aired by Reliance Big Tv and I don’t understand why ? Can’t this big organisation include one regional channel ? I made several inquiries with the customer care of BigTv but they could not give satisfactory answer.
3. Tata Sky has great flexibility in terms of choosing channels. So I made my own custom package which reduced my monthly bill.
I am very upset with the Videocon dth.we have 2 connection at home.
2days back few channel stopped working I called customer are three times after that they registered my complaint.
Than nothing worked so I emailed them
After which I called up customer care again They told me sorry and said they will take strict action against engineer.No one was interested in solving my problem
Than finally engineer came the same problem was with another person in our building
He did his work and went did not take Rs.200 every time visiting charges though the problem is not occurred because of you.
Today they disconnected my line informing me that because we did not pay the amount they have done this.
Than again called customer care today they have deducted the same amount for the amount I have paid them in advance for three months
Please buy any dth but not Videocon. The service is poor, no proper signal connection, customer care does anot care about the customer paying in advance has had two connection.
camparing to dth why cable is not clear
camparing to dth cable tv not clear picture and audio quality is very poor
This is my Videocon customer id 63275237.after cyclone in chennai .Still not my service resumed.I wondered u rated Videocon @ 7.
please dont buy videocon D2H..
you will regret if you buy videocon d2h.
I have a Parent/Child Dish TV connection for many years now. There was a problem with one antenna, and an authorised technician came to replace this. Unfortunately, he segregated the Parent / Child connection. Despite several Emails and phone conversations, Dist TV has refused to accept their responsibility to restore the said connection.
Videocon is pathetic
I recharged for 3 months HD and 1 month New gold sports but they gave me services only for 20 days.
Spent more than hour (on a chargeable call) still nothing was done and they literally said everything is correct as per their SYSTEM.
Pathetic customer support.
Managers Pratik Nagar, Devendra Jaiswal are arrogant, lack customer support skills.
DO NOT BUY videocon d2h.
Sir Please Add Islamic & Urdu Channels In Dish TV India .
Sir please help me to choose between airtel sd & videocon d2h sd connection.
Alcarte rates for Dish TV high? surprised i see individual channel rate compared other providers, Dish TV alcarte rates are low.
My most favourite is tata sky .. tata sky is top for cheap & more chanell for viewing. . I love to tata sky..
Navi Mumabi: Never ever go with Sun direct.The worst service.As brother and well wisherits my suggestion
Card number 42550305629R my problm not sloved. plz solve me sir. Janam tv not in my SUNDIRET. I am a old customer sundirect in 2011. I want Janam Tv in sundirect . Janam Tv now all network in Kerala but not in our sun direct . Plz add Janam Tv plz sir …..! Janam Tv now in AsianetCable-112, Dish TV-1975,
Tata Sky- 1842,
Videocon d2h- 614,
Airtel Digital TV-838,
KeralaVisioncabl- 026, Sundirect network-??? . But not in our sundirect . Why Janam Tv not in my SUNDIRET.??????? Plz reply me sir ???? I complain date 2015 aug 4 time 8:40pm not take action Now 2017 Dec ……feedback 2 year … My problems not sloved… Janam Tv now available all network in india. But not in our sundirect . Why Janam Tv not in SUNDIRET.??????? Plz reply me sir .
?Plz answer???
Kerala all network janam TV availabile
?But my sun network not???
Why?????
?Plz answer me???
I am your old and good customer. I pay cash monthly
Please don’t buy sun direct DTH it’s the worst in India i bought it and always in problem after buying it. They keep on corrupting the software and then charge money from u on every visit..They have the worst call center ..they just say mannikavum…but do nothing….I spend more then 2000 rupees in calling them but every three to four months they create some problem….Please buy Any other not Sun Direct D2h. …
Dish Tv is the most Horrifying DTH The terrify the customers by blocking the channels six days prior to the recharge date and terrify by their phone calls ten days prior to actual recharge date for example if your rcharge date is 10 th feb they would start calling you on 1st or second and by sixth they would block uninterrupted viewing by forcing you to recharge on that very date.
Whether all DTH services give 365 days validity when they are telling that for 1 year or 12 months pack? I have Airtel connection for some years and they are giving 360 days ( instead of 365 days in a year )for 1 year and thereby I have been loosing 5 days in each year.
i am using airtel dth & facing lot of problems. extremly poor response to users requirmrnt at all level. call centre registered the complaint but no result. No feed back calls. we never sugest to go with airte
I have Sun direct at home, i have faced worst experience at their service. I will not suggest Sun Direct to new buyer. After recharge they need 4 to 5hrs to activate your pack, they will display a helpline number for name sake no body will receive your call. From 13th Oct 2018 online recharge is not working till date, its showing merchant server not responding. To discuss quarries or questions no one will receive your calls. Please don’t suffer and waste your team, go for other Dth, this is not fake comments. Let them check issues of 10567168850 smart card number. We can say Sun Direct has best Third Class service among all. According to me Airtel is ok even they have issues at least they will replay or clear your issue soon. New users please do not go for sun direct.